Statement On FFA Reprimand Of Graham Arnold

In relation to this afternoon’s findings by Football Federation Australia regarding comments made by Sydney FC Head Coach Graham Arnold following the Adelaide United game, Sydney FC Chief Executive Officer Tony Pignata has issued the following statement.

“Sydney FC is disappointed that Head Coach Graham Arnold has been issued with a reprimand and found in breach of two clauses within the FFA National Code of Conduct.

“We maintain that in no way was his use of the word “criminal” directed at the match official and was solely used to reflect how he felt the game had been snatched away in the final seconds, with the team having fought for over an hour with only ten men.

“In over 20 years of international and senior coaching Graham’s integrity has never been questioned.

“Graham is a passionate and honest person and we believe he did not impugn the character of referee Strebre Delovski with his comments and support him fully in his submission to FFA.

“We accept their decision of no fine and no suspension and we now wish to focus on our home game with the Central Coast Mariners on Boxing Day.”